Maianthemum bifolium aka May Lily

Maianthemum bifolium is a small woodland perennial in the asparagus family. Common names include false lily of the valley and May lily. Its native range spans temperate Eurasia, from Europe to Japan. It also grows wild in Britain and Ireland. Its habitats include woods, thickets, stream banks and damp hillsides. The plant loses its leaves for winter.

Plants form low clumps and spread through thick underground rhizomes. Most reach about 0.5–0.7 feet (0.15–0.2 metres) tall. Published garden heights also reach 0.75 feet (0.23 metres). RHS gives a broader height band reaching 1.6 feet (0.5 metres). Clumps spread slowly to about 1.5–1.7 feet (0.46–0.51 metres) across. RHS lists a wider spread of 1.6–3.3 feet (0.5–1 metre). In the wild, spreading growth can form large colonies. Each stem bears two heart-shaped to oval leaves. These glossy, dark green leaves reach about 0.25 feet (0.08 metres) across.

Small, star-shaped flowers open in May and June. Their colour ranges from white to creamy white. Upright racemes hold about 15–20 flowers above the leaves. Each flower cluster reaches about 0.17 feet (0.05 metres) tall. Small, round fruits follow the flowers. They begin pale green, then turn red as they ripen. The berries mature in August and September. Both flowers and fruit add interest to shaded plantings.

Grow this plant in cool woodland conditions with shelter. It accepts partial shade and deep shade. Choose loose, humus-rich soil that stays moist but drains well. Acid to neutral soil suits it. Clay, loam and sand can all support growth. Dry soil does not suit this plant. It also struggles with the hot, humid summers of the deep South. Sources rate its hardiness as USDA zones 3–7 and RHS H7. It works as ground cover beneath shrubs or beside woodland paths. Damp pond and stream edges also suit it. Hostas and ferns make suitable neighbours.

Allow room for its slow spread beyond the first clump. Plants can reach maturity within two to five years. No pruning is needed. Sow ripe seed in containers in a cold frame. Divide rooted runners in spring, or divide clumps in early autumn. Serious insect and disease problems are uncommon. Slugs and snails may still cause damage. The fruit is ornamental, not food for people or pets. RHS also advises gloves and other protection when handling plants.